General Information

Generally, the Bulgarian legislation concerning foreign citizens is in compliance with the EU regulations related to immigration policy. The Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria, the Foreign Nationals Act (passed in 1998), the Regulation on the Application of the Foreign Nationals Act and the Ordinance on Issuing Visas regulate the legal status of foreign nationals in Bulgaria.

When Bulgaria joined the European union on 1 January 2007, foreigners are now considered all persons who are not citizens of any of the member states of the European Union, the European Economic Area and the Swiss Confederation (hereinafter referred to as “European citizens”). European Union citizens do not need a visa to enter Bulgaria. They enter and leave the country with an identity card or a passport. They can stay and reside in Bulgaria for a period up to three months starting from the date of their first entry without need to obtain any permits or certificates.

The foreign nationals whose status is governed by the Foreign Nationals Act must obtain a visa before entering in Bulgaria unless they are subject to visa waiver agreements.

Bulgarian Visa Formalities

General information

Countries with visa free agreements with Bulgaria

List of countries whose citizens can enter Bulgaria without a visa.  

Work Permits for Foreigners

Foreign citizens  may work in Bulgaria only after obtaining a work permit, unless otherwise stipulated by the law. The bases for obtaining a work permit are an employment contract, or a business trip to undertake certain activities.

Residence Permits for Foreigners

General information.

Foreign Missions in Bulgaria

Official listing of the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry.

Bulgarian Missions Abroad

Official listing of the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry.

Customs Formalities and Limitations

Important information about importing and exporting  Bulgarian and Foreign banknotes and coins in circulation. Currency regulations as well.

Currency Regulations in Bulgaria

Important information about importing and exporting  Bulgarian and Foreign banknotes and coins in circulation. Currency regulations as well.

Bulgarian Border Crossings

List of all Bulgarian Border Crossings.

Changing Money in Bulgaria

Important things that you have to know about changing money in Bulgaria.

Useful Tips When Staying in Bulgaria

"Nazdrave" is a keyword in Bulgaria. When sitting on a table, people raise their glasses and lightly clink it with all the others present, while looking the people with you in the eye (to not look them in the eye is rude) and saying, (naz drave) (good health to you).